As the music world prepares for a notable event, Russian artist Yaroslav Dronov, better known by his stage name SHAMAN, is set to represent Russia at the upcoming Intervision-2025 international music competition. This significant announcement comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on February 3, 2025, to officially hold the competition in Moscow and its surrounding areas.
Intervision, originally launched in the 1960s, saw participation from both socialist nations and several Western European countries, notably Austria, Belgium, and Spain. However, the competition had been dormant for decades, making its revival an eagerly anticipated occasion. As reported by TASS, approximately twenty countries, including all BRICS nations, have confirmed their participation in this cultural event.
The organizing committee for Intervision-2025 will be led by Vice-Premier Dmitry Chernyshenko, tasked with ensuring that this event revives the spirit of the original competition while adapting to contemporary contexts. According to Mikhail Shvydkoy, the special representative of the President for international cultural cooperation, Russia is expected to shine with one of its leading artists at this competition.
MHvydkoy previously stated, "The country will be represented by someone from the most popular artists." His comments indicate a significant emphasis on national pride and competitive spirit, making SHAMAN's selection a fitting choice. Dronov, who has made waves in the music scene with his powerful vocals and patriotic songs, aligns perfectly with the competition's vision.
SHAMAN’s growing popularity has already placed him at the heart of contemporary Russian music culture. His recent hit, "I Am Russian," showcased his unique style and patriotic themes, earning a spot on the global charts. In a remarkable achievement, the song reached 75th on the world charts on YouTube and topped the chart for Russian clips, outpacing international stars such as Justin Bieber.
This strategic choice to have Dronov as the country's representative reflects a careful consideration of public sentiment and musical trends in Russia. His acclaimed work and recognition as an Honored Artist of the Russian Federation, awarded by Putin in July 2024, further bolster his profile as an ambassador of Russian culture on an international stage.
The revived Intervision competition is reminiscent of Eurovision but distinctly molds itself around the cultural fabric of Eastern Bloc countries. While Eurovision focuses largely on Western nations, Intervision aims to promote artistic exchange among participating countries, aiming to recapture the cooperative spirit of the late 20th century.
Putin has expressed enthusiasm about the event, articulating hopes for robust participation not only from Russia but also from Belarus and other neighboring states. His comments underscore an intention to both foster cultural ties and to bring back a beloved tradition that thrived during the Cold War era.
As the event looms closer, organizers are preparing for an exciting showdown of talent and creativity. The musical event is set to take place in September 2025, transforming Moscow into a cultural hub where various musical styles and artistic expressions will be showcased.
In reflection of the competition's historical roots, it aims to blend nostalgia with modernity, creating a picturesque revival of what many remember fondly from its earlier days. The government has allocated 750 million rubles to support this grand initiative, ensuring it garners the attention and resources necessary for a successful launch.
As the lights dim and the stage is set, all eyes will be on SHAMAN to deliver a performance that not only highlights his artistic prowess but also embodies the spirit of contemporary Russian culture and pride on a global scale. The stakes are high, not just for Dronov, but for the representation of a nation rich in cultural heritage and artistic expression.
With the countdown to September 2025 already underway, excitement continues to build not only among fans of SHAMAN but also among those anticipating the unique cultural exchange that Intervision-2025 promises to deliver.
This return of an iconic music competition marks a significant moment for artistic collaboration and cultural diplomacy, bridging gaps across borders through the universal language of music.
